#fenixtj

"Maybe. I want to think it through, and maybe do a little research. Are there records of other Counties... or even Freeholds... that have increased their ....um, relationship with their Kinain?"

"Not as accurate as ours" A point of pride "But I'll make a request or two if you like? Give me something to focus on"

"Thank you, yes. Mmm. Do we have an idea of how many Kinain we're talking about?"

"Eighteen on record, not everyone reports kinain though even after our census"

"Protecting them?"

"Not everyone trusts authorities" She nods

"I mean... I get it." Jess nods "Off the top of your head, what work could we shift to Kinain?"

"I think we'd want to see who is good at what, but for those that can ken? Maybe dross collection. A few might be happy to help act as eyes to update patrols of trouble areas. And, if any want to do the usual cleaning, we might pay them for work in the hold proper?"

"If we have some with aptitude, I wouldn't mind a few lookouts. Observation only; engage and you get fired. But extra eyes?"

"My very thought" She agrees, "Scouts so to speak"

"Just... hanging out on the corner. You know?"

"Like Deer hunters in a tree stand?"

She shakes her head "Too martial an image. Like I said, no engagement. I will not make Kinain into soldiers."

"Bird watchers then? Which might be a good cover too"

"I mean, if that cover works in the city. We can figure something out."

"Will do, but the idea is sound"

"Ok, good. Let's get on this; people are getting run ragged."

"On it" She says and begins to move to do so "And, thank you, Jessica. I know this isn't JUST to help me keep busy, but ... I'm grateful "

"It's not to keep you busy, Constance." she assures the other troll "You miss Coy and you're worried, but I know you won't let that distract you, and we need to figure out how to get more labor, or cut labor somewhere so people can get a break."

"Agreed, folks need a chance to breathe"

"Right." she nods "Thanks for getting on that."

"My duty and pleasure" She heads out

Jessica reflects for a moment, then tends to the paperwork.

SHe also finds a letter.. from a local, 'To the Contessa'

She will read it.

Dear Contessa FlameFree, Hero of the people! My name is Jessica too! I am in our great city which you liburated and protect to this day. My mama took me to my first town council meeting recently. My hermano found it dull, but I loved it! Everyone gets a voice, everyone gets to hear... and then you take the ideas and make them work! Mama says we've never had a ruler like you before and times were bad then, but not now. I don't know your birthday, so I sent you a card now... and a drawing. Open it when it is your birthday, or now if you want! Gracious for all you do!- ❤️ Jessica

A small smile crosses Jess's lips, and she opens the drawing; she could use a lift.

The Drawing has her as a GIANT (Well, she is that, but like a mountain) giving the whole CITY a hug, and a little girl on top of one of the buildings waving with hearts!

The Card is glue and glitter, but heart felt

Jess looks at it a while, then has to put it down and take a few breaths. It's dusty in the library.

Really, they need to have a maid come through here. SO dusty.

Yeah. Happily, Jess doesn't really have anywhere to be.

Nope. And, well, a bit of private time, just her and that lovely note and card. Not a bad moment at all!

(End Scene)